Montepulciano D'Abruzzo DOC Flashcards
(12 cards)
What kind of appellation is Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC?
It is a regional appellation covering all of Abruzzo’s winegrowing area. It is one of Italy’s largest by volume.
What styles are made in Abruzzo?
It is known for fruity, easy going reds but you can also find serious, complex powerful bottlings that are sought after.
Where are the Montepulciano DOC vineyards found?
They stretch inwards from the Adriatic Sea to the foothills of the Central appenines in the west.
Which two environmental factors influence the vineyards of Montepulciano DOC?
The warmer air of the Adriatic Sea in the west and the cooler air masses from the Appenine peaks in the west.
What effect does the climate have on the vineyards of Montepulciano?
There are significant diurnal temperature swings and there are constant breezes blowing throughout the region.
What effect does the climate have on the grapes and wines of Montepulciano?
As a result of the climate factors the vines yield healthy, fully ripened grapes that have retained naturaal acidity and developed aromatic complexity.
Is Montepulciano widely planted?
It is one of the most widely planted in Italy but is native to Abruzzo, and is the regions claim to fame.
What grapes are required in Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC wine?
They must be at least 85% Montepulciano but most are 100%.
What are the ageing requirements for Montepulciano Riserva?
A minimum of two years ageing of which nine months are spent in oak.
What makes Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC wine special?
It is produced in a range of styles from light easy drinking anf ruit-forward to significnatly more robust, fleshy and oak-aged.
What is the structure of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wines?
Body - Medium to full bodied;
Acidity - Marked (pronounced);
ABV - Medium to high.
What are common descriptors of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine?
Deeply pigmented, cherry, plum, savory, earthy, leather, tobacco, dark chocolate.
